Pause to Pray, Then Plan

Do you have next week in your kidmin planned out? What about the rest of the month? The quarter? The next year? Or is each week a scramble of chaos, trying to get all of the plans made and all of the things done?

Whether you are a detail-oriented person or more of a big-picture guy or gal, advanced planning is a must-have in kidmin. When we fail to plan things out, we create unnecessary stress for ourselves and our volunteer team. When we fail to plan, things that need to happen get skipped or forgotten. When we fail to plan, our kids and families are missing out.

Our goal is to disciple boys and girls to have a lifelong faith in Christ. Advanced planning can help that goal become a reality.

Pause to Pray

The first step of planning is to pray, but unfortunately, prayer isn’t always our first response. We serve week in and week out, so we know what our kids and families need, right? Yes. But also, no. As you begin your planning time, pause and spend a moment in prayer before making your first mark on the page.

Where does God want to take your ministry this year?
What does God want your kids to learn this year?
What is God asking you to do?

“Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6

If we want to disciple our kids and families to have an active and vibrant faith, the best place to start is talking with and listening to the Almighty Creator of the universe! God already knows what your kids need. He knows how you can best minister to families. Before you put your plans into motion, pause and let God lead.

Plan the Big Picture

What are your priorities? These are the areas that need a big picture plan. For the next year, think about…

What are you teaching so that your kids get the discipleship they need?
What events should be added to the calendar this year?
How are you training your volunteers?
How are you appreciating your volunteers?
What resources will go home to families?
How are you training parents?
When will corporate worship happen?
How will you grow in your leadership?

Mapping out the big picture helps you make sure your priorities become a reality. Biblically, we see that parents are commanded to disciple their children, and we, the church, are to equip them to do so. Well, by planning, you can make sure you are resourcing regularly as well as providing a training opportunity. By planning, you can ensure that your volunteers are being loved on and trained, your lessons are systematic for discipleship growth, events are intentional, and more.

Turn Plans into Reality

A plan on paper is only helpful once you put it into reality. So, turn your plan into a reality.

Add in dates and to-do’s.
Mark it on the calendar.
Purchase what needs to be purchased.
Write calendar reminders.
Do whatever you need to do to ensure these plans come to fruition.

For myself, I find a monthly calendar is the tool to keep myself on track. My kidmin planner has spaces for me to write in all of the top priorities, lesson titles, and even a reminder for who needs happy mail that month (so no one gets missed).